Pharmacists are well equipped to support you to quit smoking. When you have made the decision to quit, head straight to your Link pharmacy!
Deevesh Govind, Link pharmacy owner of Bank City Pharmacy, explains why it is so difficult to quit smoking.
“The nicotine in tobacco leads to actual physical dependence. This can result in unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) gives you nicotine in the form of gums, sprays, inhalers or lozenges, without the other harmful chemicals found in tobacco. By alleviating some of the withdrawal symptoms you can concentrate on the emotional or psychological aspects of quitting”.
Deevesh also points out other ways that pharmacists can help you to quit:
- Your Link pharmacist can advise you of any interaction smoking can have on other medication that you are taking, providing further motivation to stick to your smoking cessation programme.
- A Link pharmacy is a pillar of community wellbeing so you can visit without an appointment for advice, guidance and encouragement.
- The pharmacist plays an important role in the ‘good health’ ecosystem of a community and where nicotine dependence is severe, we can refer you to a doctor to prescribe medication or recommend counselling.
“Smokers quit to improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, chronic pulmonary disease, or having a stroke, among others. It is right that they put themselves at the centre of an admirable goal. This however is only half of the story. The other half is the real risk of second-hand smoke on family and friends”.
While all reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this article, information may change or become dated, as new developments occur. The Link group shall not be held liable or accountable for the accuracy, completeness or correctness of any information for any purpose. No content in this article, irrespective of the date or reference source, should be viewed as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor, pharmacist or any other suitably qualified clinician.
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